This review dives into the GHS Coated Boomers guitar strings, evaluating their performance and value. We'll examine their initial feel and playability, exploring how they handle various playing styles and techniques. A key focus will be on their longevity and durability, comparing them to other popular coated string brands like Elixir and D'Addario. We'll assess whether the advertised features live up to expectations and whether the price point justifies the performance over the long term. This honest review aims to help you decide if GHS Coated Boomers are the right choice for your guitar needs.The review covers several key aspects, from unboxing and initial installation to long-term performance and value. We'll discuss the string's feel under the fingers, their responsiveness to different playing techniques, and their susceptibility to issues like rust and buzzing. Crucially, we’ll analyze the durability of the coating and weigh the overall cost against the lifespan, providing a comprehensive assessment of whether these strings offer good value for money compared to competitors in the market.
Pros And Cons
- Feel good on the hands
- Makes bends easier and more confident
- Good for gigging and recording
- Stays in tune well
- Rusts relatively quickly (within 2 weeks)
- Buzzing noise on high E string, possibly due to coating wear
- Coating quality is considered only about half as good as other coated strings (Elixir)
Read more: Top 5 Elixir Guitar Strings: A Buyer's Guide
First Impressions and Installation
Upon receiving the GHS Coated Boomers strings, I was pleased to find them in excellent condition – no rust, dents, or other imperfections. The packaging was intact, and the strings felt smooth and pliable right out of the package. Installation was straightforward, and I was eager to test them out on my guitar.
My initial feel of the strings was positive. They felt comfortable under my fingers, and the slinky feel promised effortless bending and vibrato. This initial impression was very promising. The feel was akin to other coated strings I've used, such as D'Addario and Elixir, placing the GHS Boomers comfortably in the middle ground.
Playability and Initial Performance
The GHS Coated Boomers strings performed very well in the initial weeks. Bending and vibrato were effortless, giving me a confident feel while playing. Even fast riffing felt smooth and controlled. The strings responded well to various playing styles, promising a great playing experience.
I pushed the strings to their limits, testing them with hard playing and fast riffs to evaluate their durability and performance under pressure. The initial performance was exceptional, exceeding my expectations for a coated string set.
Long-Term Performance and Issues
After a couple of months, however, I started to notice some issues. Rust began to appear relatively quickly, particularly on the strings near the bridge and where my fretting hand rested. This was unexpected, given the coated nature of the strings. The rust spread gradually but noticeably.
Furthermore, a buzzing sound developed, particularly noticeable on the high E string when played acoustically. This buzz was more pronounced with distortion or gain, suggesting a potential issue with the coating wearing off and affecting the string's vibration.
Gauge Verification and Pricing
To ensure accuracy, I measured the string gauges using a caliper. The measurements matched the advertised gauges, confirming that the GHS Coated Boomers were true to their specifications. This attention to detail is always reassuring.
The GHS Coated Boomers cost around 570 pesos (approximately $11-$12 USD) in the Philippines, including shipping. This is a reasonably competitive price for coated strings.
Final Verdict and Comparison
Overall, the GHS Coated Boomers offer decent playability, with their slinky feel making bending and vibrato easy. However, the premature rust and buzzing issues significantly detract from their value. They are not as durable as other coated strings I've used, particularly Elixir.
While suitable for recording or occasional gigs, the GHS Coated Boomers fall short in terms of longevity compared to higher-quality coated strings. While the price is reasonable, the shorter lifespan makes them a less cost-effective option in the long run. I would personally choose Elixir strings for better overall performance and durability.